Jesper Bratt Could Give New Jersey Devils Hard Decision To Make

Jesper Bratt played very well against the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday night. He threw his name in the ring to make the New Jersey Devils roster.

The New Jersey Devils already had an extremely competitive training camp roster this season. Thanks to two straight years of good drafts, this would give a ton of youth for John Hynes to choose from to make the roster this year.

Most fans and analysts could name a dozen players fighting for a roster spot before the preseason began before one would come to Jesper Bratt. He just signed his a three-year entry level contract this offseason after playing last year in Sweden.

After last night’s performance, it looks like Bratt actually has an argument to make the Opening Night roster for the Devils.

Bratt scored two goals. His first goal showed great hockey instincts and positioning. A nice pass by Joseph Blandisi ended up with a whiff by Stefan Noesen. Luckily that whiff ended up on the stick of Bratt, who was alone in front. He finished off the play by putting the puck in the back of the net.

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Bratt didn’t do anything to go home about last year after scoring just six goals in his first professional season. He did post 16 assists for AIK IF in 46 games.

Bratt definitely has upside after Shero took him in the 6th round of the 2016 draft. He’s very quick with his hands and can go strong to the puck.

Bratt first put his hat in the ring during the prospects challenge a few weeks ago. He made a serious impression on head coach John Hynes, as he said to NJ.com’s Chris Ryan.

“You can see his hockey sense and intelligence are very good. He’s maybe not the biggest guy, but he’s quick, explosive, he’s strong on his skates. He’s got hockey strength.”

Despite his great play, Bratt may still have to wait in line. If he was to make the roster, he would take a spot from the likes of Blake Speers or Miles Wood, who both have NHL experience under their belt. He could start the season on a six-game tryout before the team sends him down to the OHL to refine his skill set. Either way, Bratt shows that the Devils have more than their first and second-round picks.